The Department of Language and General Studies, in the College of Leadership Development Studies, Covenant University, was agog with excitement on Thursday, February 8, 2024, during the inauguration of a state-of-the-art Language Laboratory, to boost language learning in the department.
The newly established facility, located within the department, aims to enhance the language proficiency of students and faculty members, through innovative teaching methods and advanced technological resources.
In his opening remarks at the event, the Vice-Chancellor referred to a scripture in Lamentations chapter 3 verse 37, and emphasized the importance of divine intervention in achieving success. He appreciated God for the enablement to establish the new lab and appreciated the Board of Regents for always attending to the needs of the University.
He however stressed the importance of safeguarding the facility, noting its significant cost and status as a substantial investment. He stressed that only registered individuals should have access to the laboratory. Additionally, he highlighted the potential for increased knowledge among students and the enhancement of both foreign and indigenous languages.
The Vice-Chancellor mentioned that certificates would be awarded to participants in any course offered by the laboratory. He also noted that the laboratory would be beneficial to outsiders, indicating its potential impact beyond the University community. He expressed confidence that the laboratory would fulfill its vision of promoting knowledge and nurturing new leaders.
While making his remarks, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olujide Adekeye, expressed his desire for the laboratory to positively impact lives and for the equipment to function effectively without any malfunctions.
He noted that equipment like this require dedicated care and attention to ensure they are fully maximized and that they address the challenges they were purchased for.
In her remarks, the Registrar, Mrs. Regina Tobi-David, expressed great optimism about the new laboratory, seeing it as an opportunity for the University to open new vistas in language learning.
The Dean of the College of Leadership and Development Studies, Dr. Dayo Odukoya, highlighted the importance of applied knowledge, stating that knowledge is power when it is applied. He expressed confidence in achieving great results with divine assistance.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Head of the Department of Language and General Studies, Dr. Samuel Owoeye, expressed appreciation for the newly commissioned ultramodern language laboratory. He emphasized that this well-equipped facility will enhance the learning of foreign and native languages, including English, French, Mandarin, Portuguese, Chinese, Spanish, Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa.
This was followed by the official cutting-of-the-ribbon by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo, supported by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor and the Registrar, signifying the official opening of the ultramodern language laboratory.
Significantly, the new laboratory is designed for teaching multiple languages and subjects, including Engineering, Medicine, and Sciences. The laboratory can also facilitate personalized virtual connections between teachers and students, eliminating the need for paperwork. This project represents a significant advancement for Nigeria in alignment with of global standards.
While demonstrating the capabilities of the equipment to the attentive audience, one of the laboratory technicians, Mr. Ojo Samuel, explained that it can be utilized for various purposes such as recording attendance, monitoring tests, facilitating paperless tasks, and enabling seamless interaction between lecturers and students.
Showing her excitement during the event, a 400-level student of the department, Osiyemi Rhoda, expressed her gratitude for the language laboratory. Highlighting its mechanical and manual features, she emphasized that these aspects would enhance the learning experience for students.
Also at the event were other senior members of faculty and staff of the department.
